A masters in mathematics studies pure mathematics, which includes the advanced study of functions, how numbers behave, and differential equations to devise proofs and theorems.
If you have a strong background in mathematics and want to enhance your knowledge on developing proofs and theorems, this program could be beneficial to you. You could also further develop valuable skills, such as analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
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Pursuing a masters in math online can introduce you to advanced mathematical concepts and principles that are applicable to a range of careers and industries.
Online Masters in Mathematics Programs
A master’s in mathematics is designed to teach students how to formulate their own theorems by studying various mathematical principles and concepts.
A strong educational background in mathematics is usually recommended for this degree. This graduate program will introduce you to fundamental topics in advanced mathematics and its subdisciplines, such as concepts of algebraic expressions, number theory, statistics, and optimization.
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Coursework in applied mathematics is typically offered as well, which can teach you how to apply different mathematical approaches to solve problems.
Some major topics typically explored in math graduate programs include:
- Real and complex analysis
- Probability and statistics
- Abstract and linear algebra
- Numerical analysis
The program takes a more theoretical approach to mathematics and concentrates on abstract concepts to form proofs and theorems. Through your studies, you can develop a variety of soft skills, including analytical and critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
The knowledge and skills you may learn can be applicable to numerous careers in mathematics and science, such as:
- Researcher
- Mathematician
- Statistician
- Operations research analyst
These positions can be found in several different industries, such as government, education, research and development, and professional and scientific services. There are two main degree types for a math masters online program: a Master of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Arts in Mathematics. The coursework offered can differ slightly between these two degree options.
Common Masters in Mathematics Specializations
Many Masters in Mathematics online programs offer specializations to narrow the scope of the curriculum. These are some common specializations that may be offered:
- Applied Analysis. This specialization focuses on the study of mathematical problems by examining topics in number theory, Fourier analysis, real and complex analysis, and topology.
- Information Technology and Computation. Students interested in a computer science or information technology career may choose this specialization because it combines the application of mathematical concepts and cryptography with computational methods, network models, and data mining.
- Mathematical Education. This specialization could be beneficial if you’re interested in becoming a mathematics educator, as the degree is supplemented with teacher preparation coursework.
- Actuarial Mathematics. This specialization explores topics in financial mathematics to help prepare students for a career in business, finance, or other related fields.
- Probability and Statistics. With this concentration, students learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data and examine probabilistic and statistical models to determine possible outcomes.
Choosing a specialization in mathematics can be beneficial if you’re interested in a subdiscipline of math or have your eye on a specific career.
Mathematics Careers & Salaries
A mathematics master’s degree can be useful for careers found in a variety of industries, such as mathematics, computer science, information technology, education, government, and healthcare.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are the annual median salaries of some mathematics-related careers.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Financial Managers | $139,790 |
| Actuaries | $113,990 |
| Economists | $113,940 |
| Mathematicians | $112,110 |
| Data Scientists | $103,500 |
| Statisticians | $98,920 |
| Financial Analysts | $95,080 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $85,720 |
| Secondary School Teachers | $62,360 |
| Survey Researchers | $60,410 |
Several factors can affect salary ranges and job availability, such as location, employer, and level of education and experience. Some of the main responsibilities that most of these occupations share include the collection, analysis, and interpretation of numerical data and the development of models.
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If you’re especially interested in data analysis and research, positions like mathematician, statistician, economist, or data scientist might appeal to you. Mathematicians and statisticians typically hold a master’s degree in mathematics.
Mathematics Master’s Curriculum & Courses
Some foundational coursework in mathematics introduced in undergraduate studies is recommended to prepare for the curriculum of a masters in mathematics. These are some courses that may be offered in a math graduate program:
- Introduction to Numerical Analysis: This course introduces you to numerical solutions to differential equations, numerical differentiation and integration, and uses for numerical methods.
- Methods of Applied Mathematics: You’ll learn how to apply mathematical concepts and methods to solve problems.
- Advanced Calculus: This course provides an overview of calculus for functions and explores topics relating to topology, metric spaces, and continuity.
- Abstract Algebra: The main focus of this course is the examination of group theory, structure theory, group actions, and homomorphism and isomorphism.
- Real Analysis: You’ll study real functions and numbers, including how they behave, sequences, and measure theory.
- Complex Analysis: Students are introduced to basic topology concepts and the functions of complex variables, transformations, integration, and conformal mapping.
- Number Theory: This course introduces you to the different properties of numbers and their relationships, with an emphasis on ring theory, integers, congruences, and continued fractions.
- Introduction to Cryptography: You’ll learn how to use numbers to create symmetric and asymmetric ciphers and algorithms using mathematical principles.
- Probability Theory: You’ll learn how to analyze random variables and moments and make probability calculations using mathematical principles.
- Advanced Linear Algebra: This course provides an overview of the fundamentals and concepts of linear algebra and examines advanced concepts, such as vector spaces, canonical and bilinear forms, and transformations.
If you add a concentration, your coursework may focus more heavily on certain mathematical or computational concepts and methods that align with your specialty area.
Master Degree in Mathematics Admissions Requirements
To help you prepare for the application process, these are some general admissions requirements that schools may have for a masters in math:
- Graduate admissions application
- All official transcripts from undergraduate studies
- GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
- Mathematics prerequisite coursework
Some schools request GRE or GMAT scores to be considered for admissions, but they may be optional for other schools. Many master’s in mathematics programs encourage students to have a strong background in mathematics with prerequisite coursework completed before applying.
Math Masters Programs Accreditation
Colleges and universities can request to be evaluated by a regional accrediting organization to potentially receive regional accreditation. If all criteria set forth by the accreditor are met, the college or university becomes accredited.
Accreditation can affect educational and employment opportunities for students. For instance, federal financial aid opportunities may not be available if a school isn’t accredited. It can also affect admissions eligibility for doctoral programs.
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The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) offers a directory of accredited institutions and regional accrediting organizations.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Government aid is offered by the federal government as well as individual state governments to help students who demonstrate financial need pay for college. Scholarships are another form of financial assistance that’s offered by various organizations.
The US Department of Education distributes federal aid to eligible students, and you can apply by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your state’s Department of Education may provide additional information on state aid eligibility requirements.
You can search for scholarships through the financial aid office of your school, organizations that advocate for your interests, and other public or private entities that may offer scholarships. Your local library may also provide information on available scholarships.
An application is typically requested to be considered for a scholarship. Some applications request professional references, an essay, or other materials.
What Can You Do with an Online Math Masters Degree?
The skills and knowledge you learn in an advanced mathematics program can be applied to many different careers and offer you flexibility in various industries.
If you wish to apply mathematical principles and concepts to real-world problems, you may enjoy careers found in computer science, actuarial science, data science, or business. Research, economist, and topologist careers may interest you if you want to focus on abstract concepts and theorems.
Common roles related to advanced mathematics include mathematician, statistician, actuary, economist, operations research analyst, and data scientist.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree in Mathematics Online?
Masters programs typically include anywhere between 30 to 60 credit hours, but some programs may require more. A 36 credit hour program can generally be completed in 1 year with full-time enrollment year-round if no thesis is required.
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Some masters programs may include a thesis, which can add on extra time. Part-time enrollment can add to the overall length of your program as well. If your program has more than 36 credit hours, it may take 2 years to complete with full-time study.
What’s the Difference Between Applied Mathematics vs. Mathematics Masters Programs?
These are some key differences between a Masters in Applied Mathematics and a Masters in Mathematics.
| Masters in Applied Mathematics | Masters in Mathematics |
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Pure mathematics is more concerned with theoretical mathematics, while applied mathematics focuses on how to use mathematics to solve problems.
What’s the Difference Between an MA vs. MS in Mathematics?
A Master of Science and a Master of Arts are two degree options typically offered for a masters in mathematics program. Here are some differences between the two-degree types.
| MA in Mathematics | MS in Mathematics |
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An MS in Mathematics typically includes more coursework in mathematics and other technical areas of study. An MA in Mathematics may offer a broader range of coursework aside from mathematics.
Is a Master’s Degree in Mathematics Worth It?
Yes, a master’s degree in mathematics is worth it for many students. It can help you gain advanced experience working with complex mathematical problems, which can be applied to several careers in multiple industries.
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A masters degree in math can be useful for careers in finance and business, engineering, computer and data science, physics, and healthcare industries. The field of mathematics also has a positive job outlook. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, math occupations are expected to grow 29% over the next ten years. This is much faster than the average growth for all occupations.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Mathematics Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Appalachian State University offers a Master of Arts in Mathematics with concentrations in College Teaching and Secondary Teaching. The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours and meets conveniently online. It admits incoming students three times each year in spring, summer, and fall terms.
Appalachian State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Ball State University offers a Master of Arts in Mathematics Education. The program offers concentrations for Elementary and Middle School Teachers, Secondary School Teachers, and Elementary and Middle School Specialists. The program’s 30 to 32 required credits can typically be completed in 2 to 3 years depending on course load. All classes meet online.
Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Indiana State University offers a Master of Science in Mathematics. Common courses in the curriculum include Abstract Algebra, Linear Programming and Optimization, Theory of Probability, and Partial Differential Equations. The program requires the completion of 33 credits. It can typically be completed in 3 to 5 years of part-time enrollment and potentially in 2 years of full-time enrollment.
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Johns Hopkins University offers a Master of Science in Applied and Computational Mathematics. Graduates of the program may pursue careers in science, engineering, industry, or technology. The program requires the completion of at least 10 courses. Classes meet through a blend of traditional on-campus, convenient online, and hybrid learning formats.
Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Northwest Missouri State University offers a Master of Science in Mathematics. Graduates often pursue careers as secondary or middle school teachers, research analysts, statisticians, data scientists, or business development directors. The program meets 100% online. The program’s 30 required credits can potentially be completed in just 12 months.
Northwest Missouri State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Texas A&M University – Central Texas offers a Master of Science in Mathematics. Graduates of the program may pursue careers in machine learning, data science, data mining, statistical analysis, or higher education. The program requires the completion of 36 credits. Classes can be completed online or on campus.
Texas A&M University-Central Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Houston offers a Master of Arts in Mathematics. Potential courses include History of Mathematics, Linear Algebra with Applications, Introduction to Scientific Computing, Number Theory, and Probability. Students must complete 11 required courses while maintaining a 3.0 GPA or higher to graduate. All classes meet conveniently online.
The University of Houston is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of North Alabama offers a Master of Science in Mathematics. The degree can be customized with elective courses in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, or mathematics teaching. The program requires the completion of 30 credit hours and meets entirely online. It offers start dates in summer, fall, and spring terms.
UNA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Washington offers a Master of Science in Applied and Computational Mathematics. Graduates of the program may pursue careers in physical, engineering, and biological sciences. The program is housed fully online. Those attending part-time can usually graduate in 3 years, while full-time students can potentially complete their requirements in just 1 year.
The University of Washington is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The University of West Florida offers a Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences. Depending on their professional and educational goals, students can culminate their studies with a traditional thesis or a non-thesis project. Classes meet synchronously online in the evening and are 16 weeks long. The program’s 30 required credits can typically be completed in 24 months.
The University of West Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Getting Your Masters in Mathematics Online
An online masters in mathematics can be a flexible degree option that helps you build upon your foundational mathematics skills and knowledge.
If you have a strong background in mathematics and enjoy working with complex problems and finding solutions, this graduate degree may be a good fit for you.
The degree can be useful for numerous mathematics careers that are projected to have positive growth, such as statistician, actuary, data scientist, and operations research analyst. Your mathematics expertise can also be applied to a range of related career paths.
You can start researching online math graduate programs today to find an accredited school and program that best support your interests.
